Kris’ Picks: Week 71 – Songs You’ve (Probably) Never Heard Of

Kris’ Picks: Week 71 is here and ready to help you get through your hectic week. For many of us college students, we’re on break. For others, we’re just kicking off finals week, so why not supplement whatever you’re going through with some curated selections from bands you’ve probably never heard of? Let’s dive in.

Before branching off to talk about my four favorite songs out of the 20, I want to just mention that this week was a solid curated list. I usually love the lists I curate, but this one stands out as one of my favorite. So, keep that in mind when giving it a listen, you never know what you’ll find.

The first of the featured four songs is a track from veteran singer-songwriter Sean Hayes titled “Boom Boom Baby,” the opener to the musician’s eighth studio record Low Life. What caught my attention about this song is how Hayes’ soulful vocals blend with the simplistic strum of the guitar to create a story that sticks within the inner crevices of the listener’s ears.

“Boom Boom Baby” has a smooth, soulful bluesy vibe that’s catchy. It’s grabs your attention with almost no effort needed. Hayes barely shifts his vocals throughout the track, but even then, you’re hooked. You won’t be able to resist tapping your foot along to the beat of the kickdrum.

Next up is Karma Wears White Ties’ upbeat “Flowers,” a song that immediately reminded me of something Two Door Cinema Club would put out circa 2008. The track has the same catchy, fast and hypnotic rhythm that “Undercover Martyn” has, but with a less guitars and much more vocals.

“Flowers” is a song you jam out to. Hell, it’s really hard not to dance along to this one. Need a pick-me-up? Blare this one on your way to wherever you’re going, I guarantee Karma Wears White Ties will put a smile on your face and a pep in your step.

We have arrived to song three of the featured four songs, and all I can say about this six-minute song is this: the drum beat is absolutely killer.

Haarm puts it all on the table within the first few seconds of the track. As the drums establish themselves in the background, harmonizing vocals come in, the bass is introduced, giving the track stability … everything after that is catchy as hell and hard to forget.

Haarm reminded me a bit in this track of a more energetic form of The xx. The vocals, albeit mysterious, give the listener a sense of security within the track, creating an experience that’s impossible to let go.

Last, but certainly not least is Ruby Empress’ “Deluca,” a psychedelic, feel-good indie pop song that’ll get you in good spirits, and keep you that way. “Deluca” is a good track to wind down and reminisce to.

Personally, my favorite part of the track is during the final minute or so. The song transforms into something reminiscent of Tame Impala‘s “Music to Walk Home By.” Distortion, guitars and synths galore. “Deluca” ends on a perfect note, reminding listeners to be care-free and let go of their worries for a few seconds.

Those are the featured four, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find your own favorites out of the 20 picks! Make sure to dive in and find your new favorite song, and make sure to check out every Kris’ Picks we’ve done so far below.